Is Returning Home Safe? Children Returning to Frontline Areas of Ukraine (2026)

This research report examines the experiences, vulnerabilities, and coping strategies of children and families who have returned to frontline areas in Ukraine after displacement due to conflict. Using qualitative interviews and field data from multiple frontline regions, the study explores the factors driving return movements, including economic survival, social connections, and access to housing and livelihoods. The findings show that while returning home can restore a sense of belonging and social support, it also exposes children to significant risks such as insecurity, disruption of education, psychosocial distress, limited access to services, and protection risks. The report highlights the need for targeted child protection, mental health and psychosocial support, education access, and community-based services to support returnee children and families. The study provides recommendations to inform humanitarian programming and strengthen protection and resilience for children living in conflict-affected frontline communities in Ukraine.